SIGN UP AND GET YOUR FREE

MINDFUL MONEY PRACTICE: USE MONEY TO IMPROVE YOUR RELATIONSHIPS!

Aug 4

Money touches every aspect of our lives. Although relationships aren’t about money, our relationships often affect our finances, and vice versa. We want to be conscious of these connections when making a financial plan.

This is another three-column exercise. At the top of a sheet of paper, write the following headings: “The Bad,” “The Good,” “The Better.”

In “The Bad” column, list recent instances when money proved problematic in a close relationship. Be as specific and honest as possible. What caused the conflict? Was it a question of how much you spent? How little you had? What you chose to do with your money? Disappointing results?

“The Good” column is a lot more fun and will hopefully be longer. List recent instances when money benefited a close relationship. Why was it helpful? How did you use it? Did you buy something? Do something? Give it away?

In “The Better” column, brainstorm ideas about how money can better serve your relationships. List ways you can start mindfully using your money to support the conditions that will foster happiness in your closest relationships today and in the future.

Once you’re finished, test drive a few of the “Better” ideas with the significant people in your life. Remember to slow down the frames and enjoy the ride.

Jonathan K. DeYoe is the president of DeYoe Wealth Management in Berkeley, CA, the author of Mindful Money: Simple Practices for Reaching Your Financial Goals and Increasing Your Happiness Dividend, and the founder of Happiness Dividend. Happiness Dividend is a blog offering educational content and tools. The opinions voiced are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which financial choices and which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial advisor prior to investing. Financial Planning and Investment Advice are offered through DeYoe Wealth Management, Inc., a registered investment advisor doing business as Happiness Dividend. All performance referenced anywhere on this website is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. Original content written by Jonathan K. DeYoe, PEAK Advisor Alliance, and Broadridge Advisor Solutions (copyright 2017). The Happiness Dividend crew selects and edits all content with permission and care before you see it here. There is no assurance that the techniques and strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal.Disclosures